Paul Merson is tipping Arsenal to see off Leicester tonight - but only just

The Gunners welcome the Foxes to the Emirates this evening as the Premier League sparks back into life following its summer hiatus.

Ex-Arsenal star Merson believes Leicester will put up a fight in north London, especially with new £25m signing Kelechi Iheanacho.

But he reckons Arsene Wenger’s side will have enough to kick off their title challenge with a 2-1 win.

Merson told Sky Sports: "You're never too sure what you're going to get with Arsenal but they looked good against Chelsea in the Community Shield, despite being without Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil.

Arsenal predicted line-up to face Leicester

ARSENAL face Leicester in the opening match of the Premier League season on Friday - here’s our predicted Gunners line-up for the match.

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ARSENAL FC

Arsenal predicted line-up v Leicester: 3-4-2-1

“I expect Arsenal to win, but only just”

Paul Merson on Arsenal v Leicester

"Kelechi Iheanacho has come to Leicester for a lot of money and, having predominantly come off the bench at Manchester City, it will be interesting to see if he can have an impact from the start for the Foxes.

"Whether he does or not, I expect Arsenal to win, but only just."

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s north London rivals Tottenham kick off their new campaign by making the trip to Newcastle on Sunday.

"Rafa Benitez has managed at the top of European football and I'm sure he doesn't have plans to stay in the Premier League by the skin of his teeth following promotion.

"I can see this whole affair at Newcastle coming to an end soon if Rafa continues not to be backed in the transfer market. They haven't spent enough and if it wasn't for the fans I'd tip them to go down.

"Spurs are as good as anybody in the league and against a Newcastle side, who will have to attack in front of their own fans, this could be a cricket score."